A personal-computer based DSS for diabetes control and monitoring

Abstract

Diabetes is a serious disease that affects many people. The military medical system is one of the largest medical systems in the world, and treats a significant number of dependent diabetics. As with most sections of the military, the medical community is understaffed. This results in most facilities lacking adequate medical care for these patients. The key to the treatment of diabetes is control of blood glucose levels and the contributing factors, such as food and exercise. By controlling these factors large fluctuations in the glucose levels can be minimized. A decision support system that enables both the medical personnel and the patient to manage these factors could vastly improve treatment and mitigate the side effects of diabetes. This paper will address how such an approach can be applied to diabetes resulting in better medical care and decrease the demand on a stressed medical system.